Articles Tagged As 40 Under 40
Parent Orchestra Gets the Whole Family Involved
Through music-making, parents not only experience the hard work required in orchestra, they also bond more with their children and other parents.
Fighting Absenteeism with the Arts
By focusing on the relationship-based approach common in the performing arts, a Virginia high school has become a top overperforming school in the district.
Building a Global Nonprofit that Advances Gender Equity
We Make Noise started as a music-production curriculum. Today, it offers global workshops, songwriting and production retreats for women, a record label, revenue sharing, job opportunities and more.
Helpful Hints for First-Year Music Teachers
The 2026 “40 Under 40” music educators offers their top three tips for new teachers.
Chris R. Millett
Meet Chris R. Millett, Assistant Professor of Music Therapy at the University of Louisville in Kentucky, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Tiphanie L. McClenton
Meet Tiphanie L. McClenton, Elementary Music Specialist at Bryant Elementary School in Georgia, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Jake Matheson
Meet Jake Matheson, Band Teacher at Forest Lake Area Middle School in Minnesota, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Aron Kontorovich
Meet Aron Kontorovich, Marching Band Director and Director of Piano at James Madison High School in New York, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Keith Ziolkowski
Meet Keith Ziolkowski, Orchestra Teacher at Creekside Middle School in Indiana, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Sarah Williams
Meet Sarah Williams, Band Director at West Junior High School in Pennsylvania, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Alex Whitehead
Meet Alex Whitehead, Director of Bands at Jefferson Middle School in Indiana, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Daniel Upton, Jr.
Meet Daniel Upton, Jr., Director of Bands at Harrisonburg High School and Adjunct Music Faculty at Bridgewater College in Virginia, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Enrique Tellez
Meet Enrique Tellez, Director of Bands and Orchestras at Butler Middle School in Utah, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Luis “Tito” Talamantes
Meet Luis “Tito” Talamantes, Interim Assistant Professor at Cesar Chavez High School and Mariachi Director at the University of the Pacific in California, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Erik Stone
Meet Erik Stone, Band Director and Vocal Music/Media Arts Teacher at Gordon Parks Academy in Kansas, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Shannon Stem
Meet Shannon Stem, K-8 Music Teacher and 6-8 Musical Theater Director at University Academy in Florida, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Eric Stashek
Meet Eric Stashek, Director of Bands at Lincoln Jr./Sr. High School in Minnesota, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Dr. Andrew J. Smouse
Meet Dr. Andrew J. Smouse, Co-Director of Bands and Orchestras at Valley High School in Nevada, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Matt Siffert
Meet Matt Siffert, Director of External Affairs with the Musical Mentors Collaborative in Colorado, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Dr. Sonya Schumann
Meet Dr. Sonya Schumann, Lecturer of Piano and Community Music School Piano Coordinator at San Diego State University in California, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Trevor Rundell
Meet Trevor Rundell, Band Director at Bartlett High School in Tennessee, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Sean Rosenberry
Meet Sean Rosenberry, General Music Teacher and Director of Bands at Horace Mann School Lower Division in New York, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Al Rodriguez
Meet Al Rodriguez, Orchestra Director at Mount Vernon High School in Virginia, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Rolando Rivera
Meet Rolando Rivera, Mariachi Director at Diamond Hill – Jarvis High School in Texas, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Catherine Plichta
Meet Catherine Plichta, Director of Instrumental Music at The Theater Arts Production Company School in New York, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
DeVon Pickett
Meet DeVon Pickett, Director of Arts with the Scotland County Schools, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Kyle Norris
Meet Kyle Norris, Assistant Director of Bands at Vandegrift High School in Texas, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Amrutha Murthy
Meet Amrutha Murthy, Band Director at Park Vista Community High School in Florida, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Meghan Mulligan
Meet Meghan Mulligan, Music Teacher at The Deron School in New Jersey, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Kasey Julian
Meet Kasey Julian, Vocal and General Music Teacher at Orchard Hills Elementary School in Michigan, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Dr. Kyle Hutchins
Meet Dr. Kyle Hutchins, Assistant Professor of Practice in Saxophone at Virginia Tech, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Heather Hurley
Meet Heather Hurley, Director of Bands at Princeton Community Middle School in Ohio, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Matthew Gramata
Meet Matthew Gramata, Band Director at West Milford Township High School in New Jersey, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Elaina Gallas
Meet Elaina Gallas, Music Teacher and Choral Director at Mill Creek Elementary in Tennessee, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Joshua Emanuel
Meet Joshua Emanuel, Music Teacher at A. MacArthur Barr Middle School in New York, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Heather Barclay Drusedum
Meet Heather Barclay Drusedum, Director of Choirs at Tarkanian Middle School in Nevada, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Dr. David Dockan
Meet Dr. David Dockan, Assistant Professor of Music Education at Louisiana State University, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Brittany Dacy
Meet Brittany Dacy, Director of Bands at Westwood High School in Texas, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Ashley Cobb
Meet Ashley Cobb, General Music Teacher at Catawba Trail Elementary School in South Carolina, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Mary Claxton
Meet Mary Claxton, Director of Teaching & Learning at Music Will in Colorado, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Dr. Francis Cathlina
Meet Dr. Francis Cathlina, Director of Choral Activities at the University of Memphis in Tennessee, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Ben Byrom
Meet Ben Byrom, Music Teacher at Raleigh Oak Charter School in North Carolina, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Zachary Arenz
Meet Zachary Arenz, Instrumental and General Music Teacher at Flower City School No. 54 in New York, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Ryan Adair
Meet Ryan Adair, Director of Bands at Salem Hills High School in Utah, who was recognized as a 2026 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
40 Under 40 – 2026
For the sixth year, Yamaha recognizes 40 outstanding music educators under the age of 40 in the “40 Under 40 music education advocacy program.
A Framework for Healing-Centered Music Classrooms
An Oregon educator’s curriculum takes a holistic approach, blending social-emotional learning with artistic rigor and student-led leadership.
An Orchestra for Students with Disabilities
A Virginia educator creatively tailors and individualizes music education for students with significant and severe disabilities.
A University Trumpet Studio Fosters a Culture of Community
At Stetson University, trumpet students learn to be flexible, accountable and vulnerable while honing their musical performance skills.
Having Fun = Huge Participation Rate
A Minneapolis middle school music program boasts a whopping 70% to 75% student participation rate. Here’s how the band and orchestra director accomplished it.
Using Choir as a Tool for Belonging, Voice and Agency
Clear communication and empathy are the overriding tenets in Coty Raven Morris’ class at Portland State University.
ASU’s Popular Music Program Focuses on Access and Community
The three main goals in building the new program were an inclusive environment, an individualized approach and a collaborative community.
Five Steps to Build Brave Music Classrooms
Focus on community-centered values, authenticity and a positive atmosphere to create a safe and creative environment for students.
A University’s Community Engagement Promotes Leadership and Creativity
At Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania, students can participate in several early childhood music education opportunities thanks to the efforts of one of their professors.
A Christmas Concert for Flutes and Piccolos
In Akron, Ohio, flute players —from students to professionals and everyone in between — get together each year to rehearse and perform a Christmas concert all in one day.
Bringing Opera to Austin Children
A professor from the University of Texas at Austin, provides a free summer program at public libraries around the city to introduce K-5 students to all aspects of opera — singing, the story, set designs, orchestra, choreography and more.
Healing from Grief with Music
Taking a people-first approach has helped an Arkansas music educator help her students and herself deal with mental health and self-care.
5 Benefits to Creating a Keyboard Orchestra
In your group piano class, use the various “voices” of a keyboard to create an orchestra of different effects and instruments.
STEAM-Powered Music Technology
Expanding music horizons and empowering students are keys to an Arizona arts academy and its music technology program.
Metacognition in the Music Classroom
Help students become more aware of their thinking process as they assess their performance to become independent musicians.
One Arm Will Do on the Piano
A music educator and composer has found a way for students with broken or injured arms continue to learn to play the piano.
Guitar as a Solo and Ensemble Instrument
Three keys to teaching ensemble guitar in a classroom setting to students at different skill levels.
General Music for Non-Musicians
A Tennessee high school music educator designed a curriculum for students with no musical experience, and by the end of the school year, they were reading music, playing instruments and performing.
Go Viral With Purpose: Responsible Social Media Usage
What began as a reluctant step into TikTok quickly became a transformative journey that elevated my school music program, empowered my students and redefined how I advocate for music education.
Balancing Motherhood and Teaching
Two Virginia orchestra directors joined forces to help all caregiver music directors on extended leave.
Expansive Music Education
By broadening the scope of musicianship, teachers can introduce and engage more students to pursue all aspects of music-making.
How to Start a Summer Music Camp
To successfully launch a summer camp, you must start planning at least a year in advance.
Reach Nontraditional Students
Through music technology, guitar and modern music theory courses, a Chicago music educator has bridged the gap to “the other 80%,” students who typically do not participate in traditional music programs.
A Band for the Community
Musicians of all ages from around the Lee County, Alabama, come together to perform together as the Smiths Station Community Band.
Proactively Address Teacher Shortage
You can influence and recruit your students to pursue a career in teaching music. Focus on these six key areas to foster student development in music education.
Starting a Middle School Indoor Drumline
A response to a lack of performance opportunities after the pandemic turned into an extraordinary way to help middle schoolers transition to high school band and provide leadership opportunities for high school students.
Support English Learners in Music Classrooms
Incorporate these strategies to support learning and participation by Spanish-speaking English language learners.
How to Recognize Good Teaching
Take preservice teachers on guided observations so they can see firsthand some key areas that make music educators successful.
Requisite Recommendations for First-Year Music Teachers
The 2025 “40 Under 40” educators offer essential tips for new music teachers to help them succeed and thrive.
Liam Keller
Meet Liam Keller, Director of Orchestras at Chatham High School and Lafayette Avenue School in New Jersey, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Lilly Streich
Meet Lilly Streich, 5-12 Vocal Music Teacher at Galena Unit School District in Illinois, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Dr. Aaron J. Witek
Meet Dr. Aaron J. Witek, Assistant Professor of Trumpet and Coordinator of Brass and Percussion at Stetson University in Florida, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Dr. Rachel Woolf
Meet Dr. Rachel Woolf, Assistant Professor of Flute at the University of Texas at San Antonio, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Kim Webb
Meet Kim Webb, Director of Bands at Greene County Tech School District in Arkansas, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Riley Warren
Meet Riley Warren, Director of Percussion and Assistant Band Director at Forney High School in Texas, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Dr. Andrew Stetson
Meet Dr. Andrew Stetson, Director of the School of Music at Texas Tech University, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Michael Schnell
Meet Michael Schnell, Middle School Band Teacher at Oostburg School District in Wisconsin, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Annie Ray
Meet Annie Ray, Orchestra Director and Performing Arts Department Chair at Annandale High School in Virginia, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Joshua Race
Meet Joshua Race, Director of Bands at Fountain-Fort Carson High School in Colorado, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Nicholas Popovich
Meet Nicholas Popovich, Music Technology Teacher at Shadow Mountain High School in Arizona, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Kate Phillips
Meet Kate Phillips, PK-5 Music Teacher at Grant Avenue Elementary School in New York, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Adam Odenwelder
Meet Adam Odenwelder, Guitar Teacher at Belmont Ridge Middle School in Virginia, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Leah Motl
Meet Leah Motl, Orchestra Teacher at IJ Holton Intermediate School in Minnesota, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Kevin Morrison
Meet Kevin Morrison, Director of Bands at Lambert High School in Georgia, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Coty Raven Morris
Meet Coty Raven Morris, the Hinckley Assistant Professor of Choir, Music Education and Social Justice at Portland State University in Oregon, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Christopher McCurdy
Meet Christopher McCurdy, Band Director at Ulysses S. Grant High School in Oregon, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Orien Landis
Meet Orien Landis, Director of Bands at American Fork High School in Utah, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Shan Kazmi
Meet Shan Kazmi, Director of Bands at Zion-Benton Township High School in Illinois, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Zane Kaiser
Meet Zane Kaiser, Band and Orchestra Teacher at Justice Page Middle School in Minnesota, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Cody Jackson
Meet Cody Jackson, Band Director at Heights Middle School in New Mexico, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Alex Hitrick
Meet Alex Hitrick, 7-12 Music Teacher at Broadalbin-Perth Jr./Sr. High School in New York, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Dr. Cordara X. Harper
Meet Dr. Cordara X. Harper, Assistant Professor of Music Education and Choir Director at Grambling State University in Louisiana, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Bob Habersat
Meet Bob Habersat, Director of ShedTheMusic and Commercial Music Teacher at Oak Lawn Community High School in Illinois, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Dr. Liliana Guerrero
Meet Dr. Liliana Guerrero, Assistant Professor of Voice at the Butler School of Music, University of Texas, Austin, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Marissa Guarriello
Meet Dr. Marissa Guarriello, Visiting Assistant Professor of String Music Education at the University of North Carolina, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.
Paul Glader
Meet Paul Glader, Band and Choir Director at Bethel-Tate Middle School in Ohio, who was recognized as a 2025 Yamaha “40 Under 40” music educator.